This programme features recordings of Māori karakia and rituals around the felling of a giant kauri tree in the Herekino State Forest in July 1990. It was used to build the double-hulled waka Te Aurere, which was on its way to Rarotonga at the time of the broadcast in 1992.
The ocean-going waka project was initiated by Hekenukumai Busby, at the instigation of Sir James Hēnare, who was keen to see a waka return from the North to Rarotonga.
Host Haare Williams calls being involved in the ceremonies before the felling of the tree 'one of the greatest honours of his lifetime. He commentates during the ceremonies, which are performed by a variety of Tai Tokerau kaumātua who are not named in the recording.